Learning...

"One of the most significant things you have to offer God is your pure need for Him; without Him, we accomplish nothing." (Beth Moore)

I have learned.
I have learned that I have much yet to learn.
I have learned that although years bring wisdom, they bring questions.
I have learned that I may never have answers to many questions.

I have learned that my hope is in Him.
I have learned that He holds me together when my world falls apart.
I have learned that my purpose in this life is found solely in Him.
I have learned that I need Him and I always will.

I have learned to offer Him all I am....and all I am not.
I am learning...and leaning on Him.♥~thl

"'I am the Lord's servant,' Mary answered.  'May it be to me as you have said.'  Then the angel left her."  Luke 1: 38

First, a grateful heart...

I have always found it interesting that Thanksgiving arrives weeks before Christmas...instead of the other way around. Even as a child, I wondered why this was the order of events.

Though I certainly respect the historic reasons behind their date selections, I have always wondered....isn't this similar to life itself? Perhaps a grateful, open heart is essential before God's Presence, peace and power may be more clearly recognized. 'Just a thought...

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. " Romans 15: 13

Because...

I rejoice...because He is almighty.
I am peaceful...because He leads me.
I worship...because I love Him.
I am amazed...because He loves me. ♥~thl

"Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit." Psalm 147: 5

Thanks-Living...

I enjoy Thanksgiving.
I enjoy cooking for three days for my family.
I enjoy the anticipation as we prepare to spend time together.
I enjoy each moment we share since all extended families live out of state.
I enjoy watching our children grow into amazing adults.
I enjoy the good wishes among friends, relatives and even strangers.
I enjoy counting our blessings.
I enjoy knowing that our Heavenly Father allows us each moment together.
I only wish that we would spend each day of the year being more grateful.
I wish that we would focus more on Thanks-Living each moment.
Knowing that God loves me and calls me His child...changes everything.♥~thl

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.  His love endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of gods.  His love endures forever.
Give thanks to the Lord of lords; His love endures forever." Psalm 136: 1>3 

Peaceful gratitude...

Each day brings reminders of another gift for which I am very thankful.  When I have no answers, when my understanding is limited, when my heart continually seeks His direction, when life isn't fair, when strength is depleted or when others walk away, I rest in His precious, sweet peace. 

His love covers me.  His Presence surrounds me.  His hope sustains me.  His peace soothes me.  I am grateful for the One Who embraces me with His promised, precious peace.♥~thl

"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."  John 14: 27

Simple and special...

It's an exciting time in the Lorenz home. Micah has arrived for Thanksgiving break. Wassail was just made and is simmering on the stove. Turkey is thawing. Pies will be made tonight. All four of us will finally be together in two more days...plus our precious Boomer and Beethoven! Thank You, God, for the special moments. It is in the most simple times that special memories are made. ♥~thl

Family gratitude...

Family means so much to me...on many levels.  I am grateful that I was born to Charles and Barbara Huffman and grew up in the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains of Virginia.  Add to that four brothers, (two older, two younger), precious relatives and there were many blessings.  A life-long best friend, for over fifty years, is also considered family to us.  It doesn't get any more special than that.

I also grew up in a wonderful Church family.  Dad was worship leader for many years while Mom helped with Sunday school classes and choir.  Precious ministers and families, as well as an incredible youth program, incredible musical talent and Virginia's finest cooks were part of that community.

Moving to Kentucky was one of the most life-changing decisions I ever made.  Several youth from LGCC attended KCU, which brought an additional definition of family.  New friends became brothers and sisters for life...for whom I am very grateful.  Some have gone Home but I know I will see them again.  Others reside all over the USA and world...and it overwhelms me to realize how our family grew so beautifully.

Family also grew to include my sweet husband of thirty years plus two amazing adult children...and two adorable dogs.  My dream of being a wife and mom came true far more than I ever imagined.  We have lived in several communities, including several ministries, and in each one, God has blessed us with precious folks who also became lifelong family. I am amazed.

Family...blood, relatives, friends, church folks and neighbors...are a true gift from God. I am grateful for my Heavenly Father and the amazing gift of family...past, present and future.♥~thl

"But Ruth replied, 'Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you.  Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay.  Your people will be my people and your God my God.'"  Ruth 1: 17    

With grateful singing...

My gratitude tonight is for God's amazing gift of music. During our first Christmas choir rehearsal tonight, I thought about this wonderful gift He has given, which will also be in Heaven! I am so thankful for the opportunity to share with other precious people at LCC who work so hard and share their gifts and abilities to worship the Creator of music. Even God sings over us...so the least I can do is lift my voice, my music and my heart to Him! ♥~thl

"Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord." Psalm 150: 6

Grateful strength...

As Thanksgiving week begins, my thoughts consider this year's journey, events and changes.  My utmost gratitude is for God Who continues to love me unconditionally, hold me continually and carry me faithfully as this story unfolds.  Without Him, life would be very different.  With Him, there is strength to press on.  Thank You, God, for Your steadfast love and light.  You are amazing!♥~thl

"I can do everything through Him Who gives me strength."  Philippians 4: 13

So little...so much...

She was a woman of limited means.  Her clothes were worn.  No cosmetics or current hair style were noticed as she first spoke to me. Yet her smile was radiant.   Her manners were obvious as she asked if she was in my way while we shopped.  When I thanked her and assured her that she was not in my way at all, it seemed that I had just handed her gold.  My heart stirred when she explained she was going to make the cookies that her children loved most.  I had no doubt that cookies weren't the only sacrifice she made for her family.

As I made my selection and began to walk away, I wished her a great day and a happy Thanksgiving.  She immediately stopped what she was doing and said, "Thank you, honey.  You have a nice one, too, and Merry Christmas."  That lady never stopped smiling and her eyes were filled with joy.  I walked away with tears in my eyes.

I began thinking.  A lady who didn't even know my name...shared kindness, respect and joy.  A lady who most likely lives a life of challenges...never stopped smiling.  A lady who probably never attended college or claimed a fancy title or position...was exceptionally knowledgeable in how to treat others.  I hope I never forget her smile and sweet spirit. She touched my heart more than she realized.  A lady who had so very little to give...gave so very much. I pray I will learn to reflect Him as beautifully as she did.<3~thl

"Let your gentleness be evident to all.  The Lord is near."  Philippians 4: 5

His starry signature...

As I gaze into the sky each night, I am amazed at the majestic beauty continually over us.  The illuminating moon, the brilliant stars, the wondrous view are there anytime we take time to look up and see them. 

I began thinking.  As breathtaking as the lovely sky is, I am even more moved by the awesomeness of God Whose majesty continually surrounds us.  Whether rolling hills or steep mountains, a bright sunrise or incredible sunset, a flowing river or magnificent ocean, a child's laughter or an elderly life with a hopeful heart, the insurmountable wonders of God's love, purpose, peace and promises encompass us.  We simply need to take the time to look toward Him...and see Him.

May we remember to always look toward the One Who embraces us continually.  He changes our perception for eternity.♥~thl

"Blessed be Your glorious Name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise.  You alone are the Lord.  You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry hosts, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them.  You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship You." Nehemiah 9: 6

Singing sweetly...

There's a new routine with our precious Boomer and Beethoven.  Just before putting them to bed, I sing a goodnight song to them.  I used to sing to our daughter and son as I tucked them in during their childhood. It seems only right that I sing to our canine children at bedtime, too. 

I don't really understand why they chose their response so quickly.  Yet it is adorable.  Once I begin singing the "night, night" song, they both stand up immediately, put their paws on my shoulders eagerly and kiss my face... thoroughly. I suppose they sense that they are greatly loved and are expressing their affection, too.

I began thinking.  One of my favorite Scriptures refers to God singing over us. I don't know how I would travel this journey of life without His love and hope.  Yet I am touched deeply knowing that the Creator of the universe...the King of Kings and Lords, the Great I Am...sings over me lovingly, tenderly, compassionately, assuredly and delightfully.

May I respond to Him with much love, gratitude and expression immediately, genuinely and consistently.  His Presence on this journey makes a difference...completely.<3~thl

"The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save.  He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing."  Zephaniah 3: 17

It matters...

Each moment...matters.
Each hug...matters.
Each encouraging word...matters.
Each kind deed...matters.
Each "I love you"...matters.
Each "How are you?"...matters.
Each smile...matters.
Each tear...matters.
Each life...matters.♥~thl

"If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.  Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.  Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."  Philippians 2: 1>4

He remains...

When I find no answers,
He is all knowing.

When my strength is gone,
He is all powerful.

When my hope is fading,
His Presence is with me.

When I am lost,
His peace remains.

When I am uncertain,
He is truth and light.

When I am searching,
His love remains.

I am immensely grateful.
God is God.  Today. Tomorrow.  Forever.♥~thl

"Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!  How unsearchable His judgements, and His paths beyond tracing out!  Who has known the mind of the Lord?  Or who has been His counselor?  Who has ever given toGod, that God should repay him?  For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things.  To Him be the glory forever!  Amen.  Romans 11: 33>36

He is...I am...

He is faithful. I am thankful. He is loving. I am loved. He is God. I am His child. He knows my future. I will trust Him. ♥~thl

"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him Who loved us.  For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8: 37> 39

I miss you, Grandma!

Thirteen years ago yesterday, November 16, 2014, our precious Grandmother went Home. Not a day passes without missing her deeply, loving her dearly and longing to see her again. I know she is happy, healthy and enjoying the presence of God. I love you, Grandma Jenny. Hug Jesus and all of our loved ones there. We will see you soon. ♥~thl

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." Revelation 21: 4

Winter hope...

When I heard the news, I was not happy...at all.  Tonight's weather forecast brought awareness that we remain in brutally cold temperatures for the next week.  Additionally, we may have two to five inches of snow within a couple days!  Yes, it is November.  Yes, it is no longer summer.  Yes, daylight is getting shorter each day.  I understand that.  I also accept that we have different seasons for God's wonderfully designed reasons.  But to see possible snow accumulation in our forecast...was not what I considered a reason to rejoice.

Winter may seem to last forever but it really doesn't.  So I opened up my new 2015 calendar and began counting.  As of Saturday, November 15, there are only 125 more days until spring!  I know.  That sounds very far away.  I am not quite ready to keep a running countdown.  Yet the reminder that spring will come greatly improved my perspective.  It gave me hope.

I began thinking. This life journey is a bit overwhelming at times, too.  We know each moment is a precious gift for which we are grateful.  Yet sometimes those trying seasons are not what we want to endure.  We don't understand or enjoy them.  We would much rather be in a different season. We long for something much better. 

Psalm 108: 4>5 says:  "For great is Your love, higher than the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches to the skies.  Be exalted, O God, above the heavens, and let Your glory be over all the earth."

Hope....wonderful...amazing...blessed hope is always with us!  His love is plentiful and powerful!  His faithfulness is alive and amazing!  His glory is incredible and immeasurable.  He brings us hope...each day, in every circumstance, through His loving Presence, faithfulness and glory! I don't know when the season of this journey will be complete.  I have no countdown to claim.  But I do know that He is with me, holding me and loving me.  I have hope...and that makes all the difference!<3~thl

My Only Audience...

I know that You are faithful.  I know that You are Present.  I know that Your love surrounds me.  I have hope and peace, because of You, my Audience of One.

May my life reflect You faithfully.  May I focus on Your Presence continually.  May I share Your love, hope and peace gently and generously.  May all I do be for You, my Audience of One.♥~thl

"On my bed I remember You; I think of You through the watches of the night.  Because You are my help, I sing in the shadow of Your wings.  My soul clings to You; Your right hand upholds me."  Psalm 63: 6>8

All day, all night...

Dear God~
Thank You for each reminder that You are faithful, loving, powerful and present!  Knowing You hold us each step of this journey makes days brighter and nights lighter.  May our lives continually reflect Your hope, Your peace and Your love.<3~thl

"By day the Lord directs His love, at night His song is with me--a prayer to the God of my life."  Psalm 42: 8

Faithful focus...

Today a sweet, strong, faithful young lady in our community went Home.  She was the mother of two sons and a very loved part of our Church family.  Although I didn't know her well, it didn't take long to notice her genuine, gentle, Christ-like spirit.  She will not be forgotten by family, friends, Church, community or anyone who met her in this life. 

What I will remember most is her faith.  No matter how challenging her battle with cancer became, Brandy never lost her focus on her Heavenly Father.  Her hope, peace and strength were clearly and consistently anchored in Him.

I began thinking.  In the middle of life's relentless struggles, He is with us.  In the middle of life's unexpected twists, turns and tragedies, He is with us.  In the middle of unknown outcomes, unexplainable circumstances and unbearable pain, He is with us.   He knows us.  He loves us.  He cares about us.  He holds us. 

It is easy to become overwhelmed in all the details, disappointments and distractions of this life.  Yet I am even more amazed by His love, grace and mercy.  May I hold onto Him, His Presence, His peace and His purpose as each step of this journey unfolds.  I do not know what my future will bring.  But I am so grateful that I know Who holds me...and my future.  May I focus on Him most! ♥~thl

"Look to the Lord, and His strength; seek His face always."  Psalm 105: 4

He is faithful...

Shown above is an advertisement from our local hospital, featuring our daughter, Rachel.  This ad is featured in this weeks local papers.  The reason I wanted to share it is not just because I am so thrilled for our daughter...but because God alwayas knows what He is doing.  The way He brought Rachel back home to a new job, was nothing less that His miraculous hand at work. 

God is indeed faithful...now and always.  Thank You, God!  Thank you, HMH!  Thank you, Rachel, for listening to His voice.♥~thl

Thank you, Veterans...

To all the Veterans who gave so that we may be free, thank you! A special thanks to my Dad, who served and was even wounded defending our country. May God bless America...and may America bless God. ♥~thl

"Greater love has no one than this, than he lay down his life for his friends. " John 15: 13

A Light Focus...

It's going to be different.  I am determined to keep my focus.  As the catalogs steadily arrive in the mail...as Christmas commercials begin flooding radio and television...as lists are made and projects are met...I want to remember, more than ever, the reason for each day of life...now and always.

For decades, I began listening to Christmas music in September.  It was necessary since I was writing plays or directing choirs or involved in some type of program.  I had to prepare ahead of time so that all would be ready on time.  My focus was in place even before stores were decorated! 

Lately, I have been less involved in preparations.  I sometimes sang in programs but I was no longer responsible for one.  I welcomed a more relaxed schedule while my family and I enjoyed more time together.  I seriously needed the retreat on many levels.  Yet...I missed the early focus.  For daily tasks sometimes interfered with the big picture I had once known so well.  Ironically, the busyness of the days and weeks left me less prepared for the months ahead. 

But this year will be different. I am determined, now more than ever before, to keep the main focus the main focus.  I will prepare ahead of schedule as much as possible.  Yet preparations are not most important.  This year, I want to breathe in love, hope, joy and peace surrounding His love and The Greatest Gift of all!  This year, I want to respond with gratitude, praise and worship.  I want to celebrate each breath, each life, each blessing, each moment.  I know all too well how rapidly life changes.  This year, I want to honor Him...in all and above all.  Whether I am singing, cleaning, cooking, writing, decorating or spending time with Him alone, I want to be present...in His Presence...completely focused.  May His light be found in my home, in the kitchen, in our songs, in our cars, in our church family, in the stores, in our hearts and in our lives.  May the Light of His Love be my focus...each day...for the rest of my journey.♥~thl

"Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.  See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and His glory appears over you."  Isaiah 60:  1>2 

Faithful Father...

When I am overwhelmed, You give me peace.
When I am burdened, You give me hope.
When I am weary, You give me strength.
When I am abandoned, You give me love.
When I am searching, You give me purpose.
Thank You, God, for Your love and faithfulness.
You are amazing, precious and true. 
May I be grateful, sincere and faithful...to You.<3~thl

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."  Isaiah 41: 10

Kisses, Hugs and Paws...

Yes, I have always been a horse lover.  From a small child to now, I absolutely love horses.  I love riding them.  I love petting them.  I love watching them.  I love brushing them.  I am, and always will be, a horse lover.

One year ago this month, however, we brought two precious puppies home.  Of course, they are adorable.  Of course, they are precious.  Of course, they are the smartest puppies on the planet.  Of course, they have stolen my heart.  Of course, they now have me wrapped around their large paws. 

Beethoven loves to stand on his back legs and kiss my face with incredible energy.  He did so even more enthusiastically this past week. When I asked what he had done, he looked at me with those precious, innocent eyes.  The next day, I learned that he and his brother had slyly removed my gloves from my coat pocket and chewed on them all night long. I couldn't be upset.  They simply needed a loving reminder of their mom as they slept.  That's my story and I am sticking to it. 

Boomer is also a charmer. If I ask for a hug, he stands up, hugs and kisses me with great devotion.  However, it doesn't take long for him to begin to pat me repeatedly with his front paw.  This means..."Mom, rub behind my ears for awhile."  He continues to reach out with his paw until I do just that.  If he desires more attention, he rolls over on his back and wants his tummy rubbed, too.  He simply needs to know his Mom is always there for him.  My story...sticking to it...again.

I began thinking.  For a horse lover...who also dearly loves our "canine sons," I have learned much.  I am touched by their constant love and devotion.  I am also touched by their total dependence on us.  They are well aware that we love them and will take care of them.  Whether Beethoven is jumping enthusiastically with countless kisses, or Boomer hugs me with immediate "paw requests," they are safe and secure in our love.

I am amazed that the Creator of the Universe, the Great I Am, the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords loves me.  He is always available.  He made me, knows me, cares about me and holds me in His hand.  He will take care of me no matter what life brings.  I depend on Him without hesitation.  When I reach up to Him, I know He is reaching out to me. He listens.  He loves.  He leads.  May I be reminded by our sweet puppies enthusiasm and trust in us...that I should love and trust God even more joyfully with my life.♥~thl

"I call on You, O God, for You will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer."  Psalm 17: 6

In harmony...

Dear God~My prayer is simple.  My heart is stirring.  My thoughts are many.  My hope is in You.  May we remember the way You want us to live.♥~thl

"Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble." 1 Peter 3: 8

Surrender to Sovereignty...

Dear God~
It's not easy.  For much too long, I tried to repair what was wrong, lacking or broken in life.  Although I was never considered a people-pleaser, I was often given the role of peace-keeper. I took it very seriously.

I realize that's typical for a "middle child."  Yet I also realize that being Your Child is far more precious.  I must give You every concern, every challenge, every question and every situation. May Your purpose and plan for my life matter most of all.

There is hope, peace, joy, strength and trust in You.  May I surrender my all to the One Who is Sovereign over all. I am grateful.  I am learning. I am His.  I am loved.<3~thl

"We wait in hope for the Lord; He is our help and our shield.  In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His holy name.  May Your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in You."  Psalm 33: 20>22

Stillness and strength...

Now...in this moment...in these crossroads...at this time...in this life season...in silence and in seeking, I simply look, listen and continue loving...the One Who knows me best and loves me most.♥~thl

"I love You, O Lord, my strength.  The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.  He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold."  Psalm 18: 1>2

Few words, much thought...

Sometimes my words are few while my heart is full. Tonight I simply share this Scripture passage as my sincere prayer and plea. ♥~thl

"May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance." 2 Thessalonians 3 : 5